Lithuania extends Belarus border closure over balloon attack

Recent findings show that over 98% of fish and mussels in English waters contain mercury levels exceeding EU safety limits, prompting urgent calls for the UK to ban mercury dental fillings. This is significant because mercury is a harmful neurotoxin that poses serious health risks, affecting various bodily systems even at low exposure levels. As one of the few countries still allowing these fillings, the UK faces increasing pressure to protect public health and align with safety standards.

Germany and Poland are expressing concerns over the increasing number of young Ukrainian men entering their countries following relaxed travel restrictions from Kiev. This situation raises significant questions about migration policies and the integration of these individuals into European societies, especially as the EU grapples with its own challenges. The reactions from these countries highlight the complexities of migration in the context of ongoing geopolitical tensions.

In a closely contested Dutch election, the pro-EU centrist party D66 is projected to emerge as the winner, according to exit polls. This outcome is significant as it reflects a strong support for centrist policies in a time of political fragmentation, with four rival parties trailing closely behind. The results could shape the future of Dutch politics and influence the country's stance within the European Union.

Carmakers in the EU are facing a critical situation as they are just days away from halting production due to a severe shortage of semiconductors, particularly from Nexperia, following China's export bans. This crisis highlights the vulnerability of the automotive industry to global supply chain disruptions and could have significant implications for production timelines and economic stability in the region.

Moscow has issued a stern warning to Lithuania regarding potential restrictions on transit to the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad. This situation is significant as it highlights rising tensions between Russia and the EU, particularly concerning territorial access and regional security. The warning underscores the delicate balance of power in Eastern Europe and the potential for escalated conflict if diplomatic solutions are not pursued.

Lithuania's President Gitanas Nauseda has accused Belarus of launching a 'hybrid attack' involving air balloons, raising concerns about regional security. This situation highlights the ongoing tensions between the two nations and the potential for escalated conflict, which could have broader implications for NATO and European stability.

A new planning bill in the UK is raising concerns about its potential impact on the trade deal with the EU. Europe's ambassador, Pedro Serrano, has warned that the proposed legislation, which seeks to remove EU-derived environmental protections, could jeopardize the free trade agreement. This is significant as it highlights the delicate balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability, and the implications it may have on international relations.

Belarus is on track to have its Oreshnik systems fully operational by December, according to a statement from a presidential spokeswoman. This development is significant as it highlights Belarus's military readiness and its ongoing collaboration with Russia, which could have implications for regional security dynamics.

A letting agent has issued an apology for failing to secure a necessary rental licence for a property managed by them. The oversight occurred when the property manager promised to apply for the licence but ultimately did not follow through. This situation highlights the importance of compliance in the rental market, as such oversights can lead to legal issues and affect tenants' rights.

President Trump's decision to cap refugee admissions at a record low of 7,500 for the upcoming year marks a significant reduction from the previous limit of 125,000. This policy shift has raised concerns about the implications for vulnerable populations seeking asylum, particularly as the majority of the new admissions will be white South Africans. This move is seen as controversial and may affect the U.S.'s global standing on humanitarian issues.

The Senate has passed a bill to nullify former President Trump's extensive global tariffs affecting over 100 nations, with a vote of 51-47. This bipartisan effort follows earlier resolutions aimed at repealing tariffs on Canada and Brazil. The move is significant as it reflects a shift in U.S. trade policy and could enhance international relations, potentially benefiting American consumers and businesses by lowering prices on imported goods.

Rachel Reeves has acknowledged that she should have verified whether a rental license was obtained, following an apology from the letting agent involved. This situation has sparked discussions in UK politics, particularly with No 10 releasing redacted emails related to the matter. ITV's political editor, Robert Peston, argues that it is unwise for the Conservatives to demand Reeves' resignation over this issue. This incident highlights the ongoing scrutiny of political figures and the importance of transparency in their dealings.

The Trump administration has set the lowest cap on refugee admissions to the U.S. since the program began in 1980, focusing primarily on resettling Afrikaners from South Africa. This decision is significant as it reflects a shift in U.S. immigration policy, potentially limiting opportunities for many vulnerable populations seeking asylum and safety in America.

A man has been sentenced to prison after breaking into the studio of renowned artist Damien Hirst while wearing a GPS tag. This incident highlights the ongoing issues of art theft and security, especially concerning high-profile artists. The case serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities that even the most famous figures face in protecting their creative spaces.